Anna Petropoulos, MD, FRCS

Hello Alexandra98, My name is Jeanine, and I am a Master Medical Esthetician and Laser Technician with over 25 years of experience. I have been working with IPL systems since the very start of my career in aesthetics. Looking at your photos, I do see a bit of inflammation in that area. Since you’ve had IPL treatments before without any issues, it’s possible that this new practitioner is using a different type of machine. In the plastic surgery office where I work, we have two IPL devices from different companies, and I’ve noticed that one consistently creates more post-treatment inflammation than the other. From what I can see, your response looks normal for either a stronger machine or a more intense treatment. If you had red marks that matched the exact shape of the IPL crystal on the handpiece, I would be more concerned. This is why we do not recommend treating with IPL if you have a tan or have had recent sun exposure. It will increase the skin sensitivity because the IPL is attracted to melanin and tan is an elevated level of melanin all over. What you’re experiencing looks like a typical inflammatory response—something you might not be used to if your past treatments were gentler. Mild redness and slight puffiness for 24–48 hours post-procedure is actually a good sign that the treatment worked. Your body is simply responding to the light energy and using lymphatic activity to repair the tissue. Cool compresses may alleviate the discomfort and puffiness more quickly. I often tell my patients not to be surprised if they notice some puffiness the next day, especially around the eye area—it’s very common and should resolve on its own. I hope this helps! Best of luck! Jeanine Oteri, LME, CLT answering on behalf of Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS Center for Classic Beauty Boston & Danvers, MA

Hello Nice768997, There are many non-surgical options available to treat under-eye skin laxity. In our office, our go-to treatments are Morpheus8, SylfirmX, and Scarlet RF—all of which use radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) technology. These treatments stimulate new skin cell production, boost collagen regeneration, and firm existing collagen for smoother, tighter skin. Each session involves minimal downtime—typically 12 to 48 hours. You may experience redness and puffiness, which often resolve within a few hours. The next morning, the treated area may appear blotchy or slightly swollen, but this typically improves throughout the day. For best results, we recommend a series of 3 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart, followed by annual maintenance sessions. Radiofrequency energy can also help tighten dilated lymphatic channels, reducing fluid retention and tightening loose skin—without melting the natural fat pads that provide volume under the eyes. As always, it's important to choose a provider with the proper experience and professional training. Being in skilled, knowledgeable hands is key to achieving safe, effective results! I hope this helps! Best of Luck! Jeanine Oteri, LME, LT answering on behalf of Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS Center for Classic Beauty Boston & Danvers, MA

Dear An, Thank you for your questions. Yes absolutely, Morpheus is definitely a good solution for this problem along with other forms of RFMN (Rediofrequency micro needling) such as Sylfirm or Scarlet. Problems like this are routinely sent to our office from other providers and we have successfully been dealing with them for at least 9 years using RFMN - my technician has 22 years experience and knows what depths and settings to use to melt the existing filler causing the edema, tighten the dilated lymphatic channels that are collecting the fluid, and also tighten the loose skin, all without melting the existing fat. Every patient is different and good clinical judgment is necessary to evaluate their tissues and determine the right treatments settings so it is very important for you to go to a proper establishment under the guidance of an experienced board certified facial plastic surgeon or dermatologist. RFMN is not only good for filler induced water balloons or fluid retention under the eyes, but also good for keeping our eyelids appearing youthful with annual maintenance treatments since our eyelid skin sags at least 1 mm per year as we age. I hope this information was helpful for you An and wishing you best of luck in your quest ! Sincerely, Anna Petropoulos, MD, FRCS BoardCertified Facial Plastic Surgeon, Boston Back Bay and North Shore IG @centerforclassicbeauty

Hello and thank you for your question! At 43 and in the middle of weight loss, it’s totally normal to worry about loose skin — and you do have safe options! -Microneedling (no RF): Safe for all skin tones, no light/heat, improves texture and firmness. -RF Microneedling (e.g., Morpheus8): Possible with caution — your ankle metal likely won’t interfere, but a provider should screen you carefully. -Topicals & supplements: Retinol-based firming creams and collagen peptides can help improve skin tone gradually. -Massage & lymphatic drainage: Gentle, natural ways to improve skin appearance and support circulation. -Surgery (if needed): A tummy tuck is an option for more significant laxity post-weight loss. Avoid for now: -Lasers, IPL, and light-based devices (due to photosensitive meds and risk of hyperpigmentation). You’ll get the best results with a provider experienced in treating skin of color and sensitive cases. Best of luck in your journey! Genie Alexander, RN BSN for Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS Center for Classic Beauty Boston & Danvers, MA

Hello and thank you for your great question! At 33, it’s common to start noticing changes like marionette lines, lower face volume loss, and early jowling. Based on the history you have provided, we’d likely want to focus on longer-lasting or regenerative options. Biostimulators like Sculptra or Radiesse can stimulate collagen production for more structural support and subtle volume improvement that lasts longer than traditional filler. Thread lifts (especially around the marionette and pre-jowl area) can help reposition tissue and soften early sagging. Microneedling with RF (like Morpheus8, SylfirmX) can tighten skin and improve texture in the lower face with minimal downtime. Fat transfer may be an option if you're looking for something permanent and are open to a surgical route. Best results often come from combining treatments—especially when fillers alone aren’t giving you the longevity or lift you're after. Best of luck in your journey! Genie Alexander, RN BSN for Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS Center for Classic Beauty Boston & Danvers, MA